The heat slowly faded from the air, replaced by the quiet rhythm of two hearts still catching up to each other.
Adrian lay limp against Ethan's chest, a sheen of sweat cooling on his skin. His breath came slow and soft now, lashes fluttering as he blinked up at the ceiling, dazed. His cheeks were still flushed, lips kiss-bitten and parted slightly, hair a silky mess across the pillow.
Ethan was silent for a moment, simply holding him. His strong arms wrapped around Adrian's delicate frame, his chest rising and falling steadily beneath Adrian's cheek.
Then he shifted, gently rolling them onto their sides.
"Stay right there," he murmured, pressing a kiss to Adrian's temple. "Let me take care of you."
Adrian didn't protest—just let out a faint hum, the sound of someone safe and warm and loved.
